Volume 06 Issue 03 CRESTA Calling - Inter-Country Games brings teams together - Cresta Hotels
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CRESTA
Calling
Volume 06 Issue 03
Inter-Country Games
brings teams together
Beautiful
Bulawayo
New Managing Director at
Cresta Marakanelo
Major refurbishment at
Cresta Churchill
Lusaka - Cresta Golfview
Victoria Falls -
Cresta Sprayview
Harare - Cresta Jameson
Harare - Cresta Lodge
Harare - Cresta Oasis
Kasane - Cresta
Mowana Safari Resort
& Spa
Bulawayo - Cresta Churchill
Maun - Cresta Riley’s
Francistown - Cresta Thapama
Francistown - Cresta Marang Gardens
Selebi-Phikwe - Cresta Bosele
Palapye - Cresta Botsalo
Mahalapye - Cresta Mahalapye
Jwaneng - Cresta Jwaneng Central Reservations:
Gaborone - Cresta Lodge
Gaborone - Cresta President
South Africa - Johannesburg
T (+27 11) 881 1234 / 0861 27 37 82
F (+27 11) 881 1222
E reservations@crestahotels.com
The Gateway to Southern Africa
www.crestahotels.com
Cresta Hotels, the Gateway to Unique Destinations in Southern Africa
Hotels
Where one smile starts another
Contents
CRESTA
Calling
Volume 06 Issue 03
15 14
Inter-Country Games
brings teams together
Beautiful
Bulawayo
New Managing Director at
Cresta Marakanelo
Major refurbishment at From the CEO 4
Cresta Churchill
Cresta Moments
New Managing Director for Cresta Marakanelo 5
PUBLISHER Getting to know Emily Mumba, Resident Manager, Cresta Jameson 6
Richard Lendrum Getting to know Candice Selato, General Manager,
Cresta Marang Gardens 6
EDITOR
Getting to know Ferdinand Sebinyane,
Sibo Gumpo
General Manager, Cresta Maun 7
MANAGING EDITOR Getting to know Gwiso Lesenda, General Manager,
Debbie Bassa Cresta Riley’s 7
Raising the standards at Cresta’s flagship property 8
FOR ADVERTISING CONTACT
Journey of Hope stops over at Cresta Maun 8
Tersh Mahiya (Zimbabwe)
+263 4 788 161
Cooking Competition at Cresta Maun 8
Cresta Lodge Gaborone hosts team from SABC 8
Priscilla Katholo (Botswana)
+267 391 2222 Letlhafula at Bosele continues to grow 9
Francois Joubert (South Africa)
Inter-Country Games 10
+27 11 881 1200
Town Focus 12
DESIGN AND LAYOUT Beautiful Bulawayo
Nadette Voogd
Travel review 15
Through the lens of a photographer
Chef’s Corner 16
Prosper Sithole of Cresta Maun
Cresta Calling is published by: Wine 17
Future Publishing (Pty) Ltd On Rosé
Postal Address:
PO Box 3355, Rivonia, 2128 TripAdvisor Reviews 18
Physical Address:
247 Jan Smuts Avenue,
17
Dunkeld West
Telephone: +27 11 803 2040
Fax: 086 509 2666
Email: debbie@thefuture.co.za
Website: www.thefuturegroup.co.za
From the CEO
Looking back and looking ahead
and suites, public areas, the Serondella develop our whole team across all of our
Restaurant, the Kgotli Restaurant, the Pool hotels in three countries, and we have
Boma, Savuti Bar and conference rooms. recently welcomed a new Managing
To attract more conference business, the Director within Cresta Marakanelo,
project will see an upgrading of all related Mr Mokwena Morulane, and we look
services and facilities, especially those forward to the value he will add to our
involving ICT and audio visual systems. group and to our operations in Botswana
The refurbishment will also enhance the
and Zambia. The recent Cresta Inter-
shop and golf club, two important value-
Country Games brought staff together
add areas of the resort.
Cresta Lodge in Harare, which from Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe,
underwent its own refurbishment and this reminded me of how fortunate
programme that was completed in we are to enjoy the services of so
2016, will, during the period leading many dedicated, skilled and committed
up to March 2018, celebrate its 25th people throughout the Cresta group. In
anniversary, a major achievement wishing all participants and winners
that will further enhance its status as well, we were able to thank them for their
one of the leading accommodation, contribution to our ongoing success.
conferencing and banqueting venues in May I wish all our guests, travel
Zimbabwe’s capital city. Another Harare trade partners, friends, colleagues and
Glenn Stutchbury
hotel, Cresta Jameson, will celebrate supporters all the best for a 2018 that
its 60th anniversary during the year, is rewarding, exciting, and the best year
and we have undertaken a great many
yet for everyone. It is our hope that the
improvements and innovations within
travel and tourism sector in Southern
C
resta Hotels looks back on a this hotel which has served Harare well
Africa grows and prospers, delivering
successful year and looks ahead in those six decades. At our third Harare
to 2018 with confidence and hotel, Cresta Oasis and Apartments, we not only great experiences for all visitors,
the full expectation that Southern Africa shall be undertaking a refurbishment of but also increased economic growth
will continue to enjoy increased interest the Café Afrique Restaurant and Bar and and prosperity for the people of this
among travellers from all over the world. all 110 rooms, which will be great news remarkable region.
We are also pleased with the support we for our regular guests and the long-term-
have had from our friends, colleagues stay market utilising our apartments. Glenn Stutchbury
and partners, especially the many guests We have continued to invest in and Chief Executive Officer, Cresta Hotels
who have stayed with us, and the travel
trade who have given us such support
and co-operation. Thank you to you all.
Cresta Maun has been one of the Presidential Inauguration
highlights of the year, opening to wide
acclaim and a high level of interest and
support. It adds significantly to the varied
offering that we have in Botswana, and
we have been pleased with the feedback
we have received on this exciting new
product, close to one of the region’s most
fascinating and appealing destinations,
the Okavango Delta.
We have also completed the
refurbishment of Cresta Churchill, one
of Zimbabwe’s best-known hotels, and
now positioned as the leading hospitality
offering in the city of Bulawayo. Feedback
here has also been very positive, and we
look forward to increased support from
business and leisure travellers, as well as
from the conference market and residents
of Bulawayo.
Cresta Mowana Safari Resort and
Spa will undergo a major refurbishment Zimbabwe’s Tourism leaders arrive for the inauguration of Zimbabwe President Emmerson
in 2018, further enhancing its status as Mnangagwa at National Sports Stadium, Harare on Friday 24 November 2017.
one of Botswana’s leading hospitality L-R: Francis Ngwenya (Rhodes Nyanga Hotel), Tich Hwingwiri (African Sun), Tendai
Madziwanyika (Rainbow Tourism Group), Ed Shangwa (African Sun), Glenn Stutchbury
operations. This multi-million-pula exercise (Cresta Hotels).
will see the refurbishment of all bedrooms
4
Cresta Moments
New Managing Director for Cresta Marakanelo
M
okwena Morulane is the newly
appointed MD of Cresta Marakanelo
Limited. A born and bred Motswana,
Morulane grew up in Gaborone. He trained
and qualified as an accountant, but says that
overall, he sees himself as a business leader.
As MD of Cresta Marakanelo, Morulane is
the main driver of the hospitality company’s
corporate strategy, together with ensuring
that all the resources to execute the strategy
are available and that the expectations of all
stakeholders and shareholders are fulfilled.
When it comes to defining his role, Morulane
sees himself as the main change agent for a
new way of doing things at Cresta’s properties.
As the needs of consumers evolve and new
trends are born, he believes that re-invention
is necessary in order for the company and the
hotels to remain relevant and profitable in the
highly competitive hospitality industry.
Indeed, Botswana’s hospitality industry is
growing and, as such, its offering has become
more sophisticated over time. For Morulane,
this means that the hotels cannot offer the same
products they have always offered, but need to
be improving them constantly. Being discerning
and well informed, the modern consumer has
high expectations and, what’s more, they are
becoming increasingly vocal in terms of what
they expect around the mix of product and
price.
Increased competition in the form of both
established and new players in Botswana’s
hospitality market is adding to the competitive
landscape and is giving consumers a wide
range of choice. To this end, says Morulane,
Cresta must be at the cutting edge of consumer
trends, and offer a compelling value proposition
as well as all the available tools to enable
connection and engagement with consumers,
which in turn allows for better service.
His objectives in the short to medium
term are to grow the local and regional
footprint of Cresta hotels, as well as to refine
business processes internally to become more
commercially astute. The year ahead will see
the refurbishment of a number of Cresta’s
properties and the digitisation of Cresta’s
offering.
A family man, Morulane and his wife
Onyana have three children, two sons and a
daughter. In his spare time he’s working on
his golf game, and is a keen runner, hoping to
complete his first ultra marathon in 2018.
5
Cresta Moments
Getting to know Emily Mumba, Resident Manager,
Cresta Jameson
G
etting to know Emily Mumba, Kiplings Lodge, Fothergill Lodge, Lakeview states, “If you are persistent you will get
Resident Manager, Cresta Inn, Manica Hotel (Mutare Holiday Inn), it, and if you are consistent you will keep
Jameson Monomotapa Hotel, Montclair Hotel and it,” and this will be the drive in 2018 to
Emily Mumba joined Cresta Hotels Harare Holiday Inn. get and keep customers at Cresta Jameson
as Deputy General Manager at Cresta Since joining Cresta Hotels, Emily has Hotel.
Churchill Hotel in 2000. She later moved done sales and operations, and now
to Cresta Jameson Hotel at the same level holds the position of Resident Manager
in 2003. She has 26 years of managerial at Cresta Jameson Hotel, and was part of
experience in sales, hotel operation and the opening team for the Cresta Hotels in
training, and is a holder of a Masters Ghana and Malawi.
Degree in Business Administration (ZOU Emily is married to Valentine and they
2009) and Higher National Diploma have three daughters. Emily enjoys family
in Hotel Catering and Management time and vacations in the countryside, such
(Bulawayo Hotel School 1991). as Nyanga. She likes ballroom dancing,
Emily’s career in the Hospitality Industry watching soccer and gardening, and has
started in 1991 as a Junior Assistant a passion for counselling and mentoring.
Front Office Manager at Hwange Safari She strongly believes that attention
Lodge. She held different positions in to detail, execution, communication,
Front Office and Food and Beverage customer relationship management,
Departments at a number of Zimbabwe excellent service delivery, and being
Sun Hotels(now African Sun): Makasa Sun focused, are the keys to the success of
Hotel(The Kingdom Hotel), Troutbeck Inn, Cresta Jameson Hotel. As Emily repeatedly
Getting to know Candice Selato, General Manager,
Cresta Marang Gardens
C
andice started her career as home in 2009, and worked for Peermont
hotelier in the United Kingdom. Walmont Hotel as the Rooms Division
Before graduating, she had to do Manager. This role solidified her passion
an internship for a year, and this was at for hotel operations, as one needs to be
the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta (USA). After conversant with all areas of the hotel.
graduating with a BSc (Hons) degree She opened Indaba Lodge Gaborone
in International Hospitality and Tourism in 2013, in her first role as General
Management from the University of Manager. After successfully running
Surrey (UK), she immediately got hired Indaba Lodge, she went to Air Botswana
at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park as the Customer Relations Manager. This
(London) as a Guest Floor Manager. This role was enjoyable as it was slightly
was a very interesting and diverse role as different from the hotel industry.
it gave her the opportunity to meet and Having recently joined Cresta Marang
greet customers on a daily basis, while Gardens as General Manager, she feels
also ensuring that their rooms were in very excited. Her short time with Cresta
perfect order. has made her realize that her skill set
Her background and passion is in and personal attributes identify with what
Rooms Division. She spent time as Cresta stands for. It is for this reason
Rooms Manager at The Lansdowne Club that she will not only make Cresta her
(London). This was followed by working new home, but with the fantastic team
for a very glamorous hotel called The at Marang, to consistently achieve high
Metropolitan Hotel, also in London. Her Masters in Business Administration (MBA) customer satisfaction.
role there was of Executive Housekeeper, in General Management. In her spare time, she enjoys reading
looking after more than 180 rooms. In Much as she enjoyed her time in the and spending time with family. She also
between, she managed to complete her United Kingdom, she decided to go back enjoys attending culinary events.
6
Cresta Moments
Getting to know Ferdinand Sebinyane, General
Manager, Cresta Maun
F
erdinand Sebinyane, GM of Cresta Maun has acquired a
vast amount of knowledge and experience accumulated
over more than 10 years in various hospitality-related
areas in Botswana and South Africa. After completing his
studies at Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa,
he worked in advertising before eventually joining Cresta
Hotels in 2007. He successfully completed his 2-year BQA-
accredited Management Development Programme and was then
deployed to Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa as Assistant
Food & Beverage Manager where he continued to develop his
knowledge of the industry. Ferdinand later joined Botswana
Tourism Organisation where, as a Grading Officer, his work
involved inspecting, assessing and advising the operations of
hospitality establishments of different classifications, levels and
sizes, for the purposes of grading. Upon re-joining the Cresta
Group in 2014, he was again posted to Cresta Mowana, this
time as Rooms Division Manager, where, under the guidance
and mentoring of renowned hotelier, Mr John Gray, his hoteling
career continued to develop. In 2016 he was appointed General
Manager of Cresta Riley’s hotel until his deployment to Cresta
Maun earlier this year.
Ferdinand’s approach to hospitality is centred on human
capital. The development and growth of staff is a key pillar that
enables him to drive service delivery and success inevitably
stems from it. He believes that his passion for hospitality is
his strength, which propels him to continue learning and fine
crafting his trade.
Getting to know Gwiso Lesenda, General Manager,
Cresta Riley’s
G
wiso started working for the Cresta Hotels at a young
age in 2001 after completing her Diploma in Hotel
Management in South Africa. Her first job was at
Cresta Thapama as a Receptionist/Night Auditor for a year,
and then she proceeded to Cresta Mowana Safari Lodge where
she worked as a Reservationist. Two years later she was lucky
to be selected for a Management Training Programme, and
eventually was appointed as a Front Office Manager at Cresta
Thapama.
Throughout these years she moved a lot within the Cresta
hotels in which she gained experience under the leadership of
results-oriented and hardworking managers like Robert Kabuzu,
Gorata Gabarane, Agripa Mbulawa and Jane Mohako, just to
mention a few.
Her goal as a General Manager is to keep Cresta Riley’s as a
preferred destination in Maun, by leading a productive team that
will work hard to deliver great service and achieve profit targets.
During her spare time she enjoys travelling and spending time
with her family. To the young people in the Hospitality industry,
she says: “A dream doesn’t become reality through magic – it
takes determination and hard work.”
7
Cresta Moments
Journey of Hope stops over
at Cresta Maun
T
he Journey of Hope is a charity organisation, now in its eighth year
and going strong. The charity was created by a group of ladies
in Gaborone that aim to highlight the need for screening and
knowledge to combat breast cancer in remote areas of Botswana. They
undertake an annual ride on pink Vespa scooters, visiting various clinics
in districts that do not have screening facilities. Through sponsorship from
a number of companies in Botswana, they have equipped themselves to
do screenings and provide a very vital service to thousands of woman in
Botswana who, without their commitment, would otherwise go without.
Cresta Maun was one of the sponsors this year and was proud to be
associated with this truly worthwhile cause. The ‘Pink Ladies’ spent 3
nights at Cresta Maun and really enjoyed their stay.
Raising the standards at Cresta’s flagship property
A
thorough refurbishment is about to take place at the Cresta
group’s flagship hotel, the Mowana Safari Resort & Spa.
The already lovely property in Kasane, Botswana, is
blessed with wonderful views, as it sits on the banks of the mighty
Chobe River. In 2018 its bedrooms and public areas will undergo
upgrades and refurbishments to make it as delightful inside as the
views are outside.
Cresta Hotels CEO Glenn Stutchbury says the focus is mainly
on the public areas, which will receive a complete uplift to meet
the demands and expectations of today’s visitors. The changes
will affect all 108 bedrooms and suites, both the Serondella and
Kgotla Restaurants and the Savuti Bar, and will see new kitchen
and buffet equipment installed.
The existing conference rooms will be fitted with state-of-the-
art audio-visual equipment, and a new conference area created,
facing the river. Also in line for an overhaul are the 24-hour That adds up to a major project, but the timeframe will be fast.
reception, the Club House on the nine-hole golf course, the Porte Renovation teams will move in during the second quarter of 2018
Cochère, the guest shop and the Jackalberry Deck. and should be finished within the third quarter.
Cooking Competition
at Cresta Maun
F
rom 16-18 November, Cresta Maun Resort hosted
the Competition Authority, which consisted of 39
guests in 27 rooms. Upon arrival guests indulged
in a two-hour sunset boat cruise, and later a beautiful
dinner on the striking terrace. On the morning of 17
November, a well-organized cooking competition was
held underneath the magnificent palm trees on the bank
of the Thamalakane River. Executive Chef Prosper, and
Sous-Chef Koziba graced the spectacular event as
judges. Later that evening the Caribbean theme took
place in the lush gardens where everyone enjoyed the
Chef’s scrumptious char-grilled food, with the clink of
cocktail glasses in the evening breeze.
Cresta Lodge Gaborone hosts team from SABC
8
Cresta
Cresta Moments
Moments
Letlhafula at Cresta Bosele continues to grow
T
he annual cultural event hosted by Cresta Bosele Hotel said the Cresta Bosele Hotel Letlhafula added to a number of
continues to grow in popularity as this year’s edition activities, such as the Softball Extravaganza and Phikwe National
attracted more people than the previous years. The family- Marathon, that attracts tourism to the town and keeps the economy
oriented event, ‘Letlhafula’ is based on a traditional Setswana going.
festival that is a celebration and thanksgiving for a good harvest. Revellers were treated to traditional cuisine and entertainment
Officiating at the event, Acting Selebi Phikwe Mayor, Mr Moses by local folklore musician Maghebula, renowned national poet
Serite hailed Cresta Bosele Hotel Management for going ahead Moroka Moreri, backed by Nkokowe band and Kala tsa kgale
with the event at a time when economy of the town is shaky. He traditional group.
Traditional dancers kept the guests entertained
The Letlhafula was a perfect time for ladies to showcase traditional
attire
(+267) 390 9003
info@gaboroneelectronics.co.bw
ICE MACHINES
VENTPRO
Cresta Moments
Inter-Country Games
The Cresta Inter-Country Games brought staff together from Botswana, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
Well done to all winners!
Cresta Hotels Inter-Country Sports 2017 -
Winners
100m Men Simbarashe Chamutsa Zim
100m Women Phyllis Kunze Zim
200m Men Kabo Kalego Bot
200m Women Sarah Nsemiwe Zam
400m Men Tsiamo Bot
400m Women Sarah Nsemiwe Zam
1500m Men Kadinga Dintle Bot
Supporters cheer on their teams
Simbarashe Chamutsa Zim
Leeroy Chiwona Zim
4 x 100m Men Relay
Dumisani Chipangura Zim
Fortune Bhebhe Zim
Phyllis Kunze Zim
Audrey Zim
4 x100m Women Relay Musorowembudzi
Nyasha Mandisodza Zim
Shuvai Sobha Zim
Tafadzwa Tickey Zim
Leeroy Chiwona Zim
2 x 400m Men Relay Supporters on the sidelines of the basketball court
Ernest Karindi Zim
Moses Chiunga Zim
Soccer Bot
Soccer Man Of The Match Tawana Mobita Bot
Netball Bot
Netball Most Valuable Player Pauline Modise Bot
Basketball Zim
Most Valuable Player Tanaka Muyambo Zim
Athletics Fastest Bullet Sarah Nsemiwe Zim
Volleyball Zim Netball teams clash for first place
Volleyball Precious Player Dumisani Chipangura Zim
Squash Zim
Most Valuable Player Ignatious Mapfumo Zim
Darts Zim
Dartman Victor Mtisi Zim
Golf Overall Winner Otis Masinale Zim
Most Golfer Mr. Chimumvuri Zim
Tug of War Women Strong Team Zim
Tug of War Men Strong Team Zim
Sportswoman of The
Gofaone Radithipa Bot
Tournament
Sportsman of The Tournament Dumisani Chipangura Zim Volleyball teams clash for first position
10Cresta Moments
Cresta Hotels, where one smile starts another.
Supporters take it easy between games.
Cresta Marakanelo team dances in celebration after receiving their
Style is always an integral part of the Games award
Novelty races were fun!
Prize giving was a momentous occasion Cresta Zimbabwe ladies proudly lift their Tug-of-War award
11Town Focus
Beautiful Bulawayo
By Lesley Stones
Bulawayo Station
A
n old-world atmosphere makes Bulawayo a delightful ordinary villagers. A small on-site museum will help to make the
place to visit, with tree-lined avenues, pretty parks and ruins come alive for you. Though not as famous as the ruins of
picturesque colonial architecture. Zimbabwe’s second Great Zimbabwe near Masvingo, Khame has a similar historical
city is the country’s industrial centre and business hub, background.
a friendly and relaxed place with sky-scrapers, brand-name hotels
and upmarket restaurants. It’s the gateway to the Matobo National About 40km from the city, Matobo National Park is a top attraction
Park and the Khame Ruins, and there’s enough to do in the area to for nature lovers, with a population of endangered black and
be worth a short stay for tourists as well as traders. white rhinos, black eagles, antelope, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest,
ostrich, and a variety of bird life. The Matobo Hills have striking
Bulawayo was founded in the 1840s by Lobengula Khumalo, an granite rock formations, and some San rock paintings can be seen
Ndebele king. Fifty years later it suffered an invasion by troops of in Nswatugi Cave.
the British South Africa Company during the bloody Matabele War.
Its colonisation led by the controversial imperialist Cecil Rhodes in In the Matobo Hills, under a slab of stone on top of a granite hill,
1894 triggered a period of grand architectural expansion, and lies the grave of Cecil Rhodes. This controversial character died
saw Bulawayo gain electric lighting in 1897, even before electric aged only 48 in 1902. He was a British-born businessman who
street lights were illuminating London. was sent to South Africa as a sickly child in the hope that sunshine
and fresh air would do him good. He certainly thrived, becoming
It’s well worth visiting the Khame Ruins, a Unesco World Heritage a diamond magnate and a politician who served as the Prime
site 22km west of Bulawayo. The ruins of ancient buildings cover a Minister of the Cape Colony from 1890 to 1896. He and his
large area that was once the capital of the Torwa dynasty, which British South Africa Company founded the territory formerly known
thrived from 1450 till 1650 AD, when the town was abandoned. as Rhodesia.
Artefacts from Europe and China have been found here, showing
that Khame was already an important trading centre centuries ago. The Natural History Museum opened in 1964 and features exhibits
about the country’s history, mineral wealth and wildlife. There are
The remains include ornately patterned stone walls that were built rock collections and one of the largest taxidermied elephants in
to hold contain broad terraces where the homes were based. You the world, standing 4m tall with tusks that weigh 40kg. Other
can wander around three of these large tiered platforms that were African animals are also displayed in dioramas showing their
once occupied by the royal family. The smaller terraces held the natural habitats. You can also learn about the Syntarsus, a local
clay huts of state officials, while the open areas were reserved for dinosaur.
12Town Focus
World Heritage Site, Matobo Hills Bulawayo Art Gallery
Zimbabwe High Court Tshabalala Game Park
Chipangali Wildlife Orphanage and Research Centre was set complex houses Bulawayo Home Industries that sells batiks and
up by a former game ranger to treat and shelter injured animals weavings.
with little chance of survival in the wild. It’s open to visitors,
and its residents include leopards, hyenas, cheetahs, monkeys, The National Gallery is a beautiful colonial building in the centre
hedgehogs and lynxes. of town. There is also a café for refreshments after you have
admired the fine collection of artworks.
Slightly out of place, architecturally speaking, is quirky Nesbitt
Castle, a medieval-style fortress in manicured gardens, that is now Another lovely old establishment for lunch is the Bulawayo Club,
a hotel and wedding venue. It was built in the 1920s as a private once a club for gentlemen only. Now it’s a hotel that accepts
residence for the Gothic-loving Theodore Holdengarde, and its women! It’s a place of polished wooden floors, enormous
interior features twisting staircases, mysterious passageways, and wooden bookcases, gleaming wine glasses and polished cutlery.
lavish wood-paneled rooms filled with antiques. Some rooms have It was founded in 1895, and is still an extraordinary piece of
been turned into a pub, and there’s also an outdoor pool. Zimbabwean history, because efforts have been made to retain its
original features throughout its several refurbishments. The present
Among the exhibits at the Railway Museum is the carriage that Club House was built in 1934.
was used by Cecil Rhodes, then used when it carried his coffin
from Cape Town where he died, to Bulawayo. There’s a good Getting There:
collection of steam and diesel engines on display where you can Bulawayo is in the south-west of Zimbabwe. South African Airways
climb on board, as well as old ticket offices and exhibits dating flies directly to Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport from
back to 1897. Johannesburg every day, and there are flights to and from Harare
and Victoria Falls with Air Zimbabwe. Car hire is available at the
Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre is based in Mzilikazi township, airport.
where an art school helps youngsters learn to become self-
sustaining artisans. You can buy crafts, including pottery, Driving from Johannesburg takes about 10 hours. Intercape and
paintings, sculptures and wood carvings in its shop. The same Greyhound run daily coaches between Johannesburg and Bulawayo.
13Town Focus
Cresta Churchill – charming and elegant
All 50 bedrooms have been repainted and fitted with new flooring.
The reception area and 24-hour front desk can assist with airport
transfers at any time.
All the bathrooms were Enjoy excellent cuisine and fine For less formal dining, snacks can be ordered in the courtyard
completely refitted. wines at Inglenook garden.
Visitors enjoying the delights of Bulawayo will also be enchanted is on hand to ensure that every meeting is memorable for all the
by the Cresta Churchill Hotel, a charming old building with an right reasons.
elegant and welcoming atmosphere. The building has recently
undergone extensive refurbishment, losing none of its historic Kudzai Ratisai, general manager of the hotel, said the refurbishment
atmosphere, but gaining more in the way of modern updates. programme was designed to update the accommodation offering
at what is one of the city’s best-known hospitality establishments.
The feedback from local, regional and international guests is that The first set of refurbished rooms was completed in time for the
the hotel has been transformed into one of Zimbabwe’s most stylish 2017 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, and the second phase
and comfortable hospitality venues. was completed in time for the annual Mine Entra exhibition and
conference.
The 3-star hotel is 6km from the city centre in peaceful, quiet
surroundings on the corner of Matopos Road and Moffat Avenue. The hotel’s Inglenook Restaurant serves continental and full English
With its Tudor architecture, it is one of the finest hotels in Bulawayo, breakfasts, as well as à la carte or set lunch and dinner menus.
and offers luxurious accommodation and professional conference A list of fine wines complements the excellent cuisine, making it a
facilities. There is also a lovely sparkling swimming pool to cool popular venue for Bulawayo residents as well as for hotel guests.
off on those hot Zimbabwe days and balmy evenings. During the The Inglenook Restaurant also offers Sunday lunch specials that
refurbishment, all 50 bedrooms were repainted and fitted with are popular, so reservations are recommended. For less formal
new flooring, and had flat-screen televisions installed to receive dining, snacks can be ordered in the courtyard garden, while the
satellite television channels. International plug points and USB public bar and the secluded cocktail bar stay open until late.
chargers were also installed. All the bathrooms were completely
refitted, and electronic room keys were introduced for added The hotel’s location makes it the perfect place to stay for tourists
safety and convenience. The elegant bedrooms are comfortable, as well as business visitors, as it is close to the central business
air-conditioned and fully serviced, and have tea- and coffee- district and within easy travelling distance of many of Bulawayo’s
making facilities. Free Wi-Fi is available to keep you connected. historical and cultural landmarks. It is about 7km to the Railway
Museum and the Natural History Museum, and transport can
The Cresta Churchill has also refurbished its reception area and easily be arranged to the Khame Ruins or the Matobo National
24-hour front desk, where airport transfers can be organised Park.
at any time. The extensive renovations also brought the hotel’s
conference facilities up to world-class standard. This historic hotel The hotel was previously known as the ‘Churchill Arms’ and has
offers meeting facilities with two conference rooms, the largest of been a popular meeting place for both locals and tourists for many
which can cater for up to 120 people, while the smaller conference years, and is still fondly remembered by members of the community.
room can accommodate up to 40 people. These facilities and the Many years later, the newly refurbished Cresta Churchill Hotel
hotel’s convenient location mean that the Churchill offers some of remains one of Bulawayo’s oldest buildings, modernised, but still
the best conference locations in the city. A team of eventing experts rich in character.
14Travel Review
Through the lens of a photographer
Paul Karnstedt is a travel photographer and recently had the opportunity to stay
at two Zimbabwe-based Cresta Hotels; Cresta Churchill in Bulawayo and Cresta
Sprayview in Victoria Falls. We spoke to him about his experience…
Inglenook Restaurant
The beautiful pool at Cresta Sprayview
Railway Museum All Cresta Sprayview rooms look out onto the hotel gardens
Tell us about Victoria Falls
Give us your thoughts on the town of Bulawayo? Vic Falls is an amazing little town – a stunning tourist destination.
Bulawayo is a small, quiet town with beautiful lush vegetation.
What is the best way to travel to Victoria Falls?
What’s the best way to get there? My preference is flying with British Airways or Fast Jet – staff are
Currently the only airline servicing Bulawayo is SAA. However very friendly.
self-drive is also an option.
In your opinion, what is a must-see or must-do in
In your opinion, what is a must-see or must-do in Victoria Falls?
Bulawayo? All the tourist attractions are fantastic – try them all! Also a must-
The old train museum and art museums are really well-worth a do is to have High Tea at the Vic Falls Hotel.
visit. I was pleasantly surprised at how well-maintained both
these museums are. If you are interested in railway history, the Any hidden gems or lesser known places to visit?
Bulawayo Railway Museum is a must-see. The Victoria Falls Private Game Reserve is a great spot for game
viewing.
Tell us about your experience at Cresta Churchill
Cresta Churchill’s exterior has a unique old Tudor style, which Tell us about your experience at Cresta Sprayview
makes the hotel quite unique. The hotel has recently undergone a Cresta Sprayview Hotel is set in lovely, spacious gardens with
refurbishment, with upgrades done throughout the property. The a large clean swimming pool. Rooms are great – clean and
rooms all have flat screen televisions, international plug points and comfortable and all look out onto the hotel gardens. The food at
USB chargers. Rooms are very comfortable; all air-conditioned Cresta Sprayview is enjoyable; well-presented with good-sized
with tea and coffee-making facilities available. Wi-Fi is also portions.
available. I enjoyed the food whilst at Cresta Churchill. Portions
were good and well-presented. I had a fantastic stay at Cresta Spraview – the staff are excellent
and service is very good.
Overall I had a great experience during my stay at Cresta
Churchill. Staff are incredibly friendly and helpful. The hotel is The friendliness and service of Zimbabweans can’t be beat – it
situated in a quiet part of Bulawayo and there is a superb, relaxed is a wonderful, safe country to visit, that I highly recommend to
atmosphere within the hotel. international travellers.
15Chef’s Corner
CHEF’S CORNER
Chef Prosper Sithole has recently joined the Cresta Group as the chef
at the newly opened Cresta Maun hotel. He aims to establish the hotel
unit as the premier gastronomic centre for the Maun area. Here are
some of his delicious recipes.
MAIN COURSE – Skillet Seared Grass-Fed Tenderloin
Served with fig and caramelized onion coulis, bordelaise sauce, bacon-
wrapped potato rosettes.
Ingredients - 250g beef tenderloin steak
Marinade
• 2 tablespoon Worcester sauce • Pinch of crushed coffee beans
• 2 tablespoon sunflower oil • Black peppercorns
• ½ tsp fresh garlic and ginger • Coarse salt
paste
Method
STARTER – Home-Cured Salmon Gravlax Combine all the ingredients for the marinade. Marinate the fish for 5 minutes.
Ingredients Coat and dust off any surplus flour. Fry in minimum oil till golden brown,
• 1kg salmon fillet Smoked snoek pâté 2 minutes on each side. Finish the cooking in a preheated oven 160°C for
• 250g coarse salt or • 75g chopped 8 minutes.
salt flakes smoked snoek Bordelaise sauce
• 250g caster sugar • 2 Tbsp cream cheese Ingredients
• 1 Tbsp cracked • 2 Tbsp mayonnaise • 2 tablespoons dry red wine • 1 tsp bone marrow
peppercorns • 1 tsp chopped • 1 table spoon finely chopped • 250ml home-made demi-glace
• ½ cup grated scallions shallots • Chopped thyme or rosemary
orange zest • 1 tsp chopped cilantro
• 1/3 cup grated • ½ chopped red Method
lemon zest capsicum Clean and remove any silver muscle from the steak, and secure with a
• 1 cup chopped • Combine & season trussing thread. Combine the marinade ingredients and marinate steak for
fresh dill at least 3 hours. Heat the skillet on high heat; add oil and gently sear the
• 20ml fresh lemon juice steak until golden on all sides. Immediately transfer to a 180°C preheated
oven and cook for 10 minutes approx. for a medium steak. Deglaze the pan
Method with dry red wine add chopped shallots, chopped thyme, bone marrow and
Combine salt, sugar, cracked peppercorns, grated zest, demi-glace, and let simmer for 2 minutes. Serve on a hot plate.
dill and juice together. Sprinkle half of the salt mixture on
the base of a rectangular ceramic dish; place the washed
salmon skin side down on top of the sprinkled mixture.
Spread the remaining sodium mixture on top of the fish.
Blanket the salmon with cling film; put a small cutting
board or small baking tray on top of the salmon and place
weights to keep the fish compressed, and then refrigerate
for 12 hours. After 12 hours turn the salmon over, do not
discard the liquid forming in the container, replace weights
and cure for another 12 hours. Remove the salmon, wash,
pat dry, and slice thinly using a salmon/ham knife. Drizzle
with green peppercorn and orange dressing, and serve
with Melba toast or cream crackers.
DESSERT – Prosper’s Dessert Trio Ingredients
Tropical Pavlova, saffron panna cotta, and pistachio- • 5 egg whites • Fruits: Mixed berries, kiwi,
crusted deep-fried ice cream. • 1 Tbsp corn starch peach, nectarine segments
• 2 vanilla drops • Chantilly cream
• 1 cup castor sugar • 250ml fresh cream
• 3 Tbsp sugar
Method
Whisk egg whites, sugar and vanilla until fluffy and shiny. Gradually
incorporate corn starch to the meringue. Pipe the desired shapes on a grease
proof paper and bake in a preheated oven (95° -100°C) for 1hr 20minutes.
Bake without colour. Let cool, pipe the vanilla whipped cream on the meringues
and arrange the berries neatly on top. Serve garnished with edible flowers.
16Wine Review
On Rosé
Tim James
R
osé still seems to rate as an international success story. In tasted three, starting with the entry-level By.Ott Rosé 2016. At
Britain, apparently, summer sales have been boosted by the a mere R275 per bottle, this is a delightfully fresh, delicate and
popularity of a drink called frosé – an icy sweet slush made balanced wine made from grenache, cinsaut and syrah. I really
by freezing rosé with lemon juice and sugar. That doesn’t sound enjoyed it, to sip or with food.
like a challenge to pink wine’s generally rather girly image, yet
there are more men around calling themselves brosés. Château de Selle Rosé 2016 is also from the Côtes de Provence, a
similar blend, but from grapes only off the estate. It’s the palest of
I don’t know if either of those trends has advanced in South Africa. pink-tinged gold, more finely textured, more nuanced and slightly
I certainly haven’t helped, but don’t do much for the category at more intense than the By.Ott; elegant and immensely drinkable.
all, and am pretty sure that I have never in my life bought a bottle Another single-estate wine is Château Romassan, from the Bandol
of rosé (do I even know anyone who regularly drinks the stuff?), area and therefore dominated by mourvèdre, with some syrah.
though I have drunk and tasted plenty and appreciated some; This is touted by Domaines Ott as a more “masculine” rosé, and
and there are many these days that are acceptably dry, even if it certainly has a different character: bigger, bolder, more intense,
of mixed quality and not in the volumes of the sticky likes of 4th but still refined. I preferred the Château de Selle.
Street and Four Cousins.
Both those cost R475 from the importer, somewhat more than most
The smarter, most fashionable international end of rosé is local rosé-lovers, except the richest and most blasé, will stump
unquestionably dominated by France, especially Provence. (And up for a bottle this summer – though if any do, I can’t imagine
here’s an odd thing: guess which country imported more South they’ll be other than delighted and charmed. Can the Cape offer
African rosé than any other, in recent years at least? Mais oui! anything as good? In my opinion, the closest would be the Break
Presumably in bulk, which is how a whopping 84% of Cape rosé a Leg blanc de noir from Van Loggerenberg (blanc de noir is a
leaves these shores, and presumably to fill some unattractive gap legal category here for rosé made only from red grapes; in France
in their own production.) that rule applies to all rosés, but here they can be, and often are,
blends of red and white).
Amongst the grandest of Provençal pinks are those of Domaines Ott,
drunk around the world, but surely most glitteringly and pleasurably Break a Leg, from cinsaut, is subtly delectable and serious, but
on the French Riviera and in ports where millionaires’ yachts you won’t find it easily. Amongst other locals that I admire and
gather. The rich and occasionally beautiful also swill it down in have tasted fairly recently would be Sijnn’s Saignée – as the name
such places as Camps Bay in Cape Town, gazing at the sunset over implies, a wine made from the “bled off” juice from their syrah-
the sea, or at each other. Certainly the allocation that Reciprocal, based red blends. It’s not offered as a rosé as such, and could be
the local importer, gets for South Africa seems to get snapped up considered a very light, scarcely-tannined red. Kanonkop Kadette
immediately, despite the relative priciness of the wines. Dry Pinotage Rosé is invariably good and delicious (pinotage
works well in this style), and DeMorgenzon’s shiraz-based Garden
Last week I had the pleasure of sampling some Domaines Ott wines, Vineyards Rosé is also one that suggests the local pink offering
including rosés, at a lunch given in Cape Town by Reciprocal. Of can be something other than trivial.
the range – in formats from half-bottle to double-magnum – we
17Reviews
Guest feedback- Trip Advisor Reviews
Cresta Churchill Cresta Sprayview
“Smiles in Bulawayo” “A Lovely Stay in Vic Falls”
The Cresta Churchill Hotel in Bulawayo says the smiles start We had the most wonderful time here. The staff was incredibly
the moment you pull into the hotel car park. They are right. The friendly and helpful and the amenities were wonderful – the
staff are excellent and so warm and friendly from reception to breakfast, pool, bar, air conditioning, TV, etc. The staff even called
the kitchen. Nothing is too much trouble. I would recommend the over to another restaurant we were going to let them know we
Cresta Churchill for any visit to Bulawayo. Very comfortable and would need a table for dinner and they were waiting for us upon
an excellent business hotel experience. arrival. I would highly recommend it.
Rating: ✶✶✶✶✶ Rating: ✶✶✶✶✶
Alan Wilkins, Cardiff, United Kingdom Eish3, Cape Town Central, South Africa
Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa Cresta Maun
“Fantastic lodge – beautiful views – friendly staff” “Great new location in Maun”
It was a refreshing site to see such a lovely new establishment like
Had an amazing few days at Mowana. This is the perfect location
this in Maun. Don’t be put off by the entrance which looks like a
for the Chobe National Park – right on the river with beautiful
cold box style hotel - because once you enter the building all this
sunsets. We did both river and land safaris through the lodge ad
changes. I love the new trendy bush style hotel within the fresh
they were amazing – great guides, very friendly. The boat cruise at
confines of a Cresta style lodge. It’s open and airy with lovely
sunset was fantastic! Loved the lodge, the food was great; rooms
furnishings. I sat out on the deck and watched the full red sunset
are spacious and luxurious, right on the river with great views.
and was graciously served by Joy who was just that, such a joy.
Martin, the Guest Services Manager was an incredible host and
Thank you for training your staff to be so attentive and friendly.
made us feel extremely welcome. In fact all the staff were very
Dinner was superb and the whole ambience of eating outside
warm and made us feel at home. Would very happily go back and
with the lanterns is very welcoming.
recommend to everyone!
Rating: ✶✶✶✶
Rating: ✶✶✶✶✶
Rafiki234, Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
Dogandwolf, London, United KingdomFrom all of us at Cresta Hotels,
thank you for your continued support.
We wish you the very best for 2018.
Realeboga
Taboka THANK YOU
TABOKA
Thank you
REALEBOGA
TABOKA Thank you
Thank you
TABOKA
Thank you
NDANGI
Helebogago
THANK YOU
TWALETUMERA
Twaletumera
Thank you
Taboka
NDANGI
Taboka
Taboka
REALEBOGA
Ndangi
Twaletumera
Taboka
Ndangi
Thank you
HELEBOGAGO
THANK YOU
Taboka
Helebogago
Helebogago
NDANGI
Realeboga
Taboka
Taboka
Ndangi
Thank you
TABOKA Twaletumera
Thank you
Helebogago TABOKA
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